Backyard tailgating golf game

ABSTRACT

A tailgating game assembly including a first platform, a second platform, a projectile a first deformable target, a second deformable target, a third deformable target, and a club. In use, the club is used to hit the projectile off of the platform towards the three deformable targets. The game is meant to simulate the chipping aspect of golf. The club included in the assembly is capable of height adjustment, and is suitable for both right and left handed competitors. The projectile included may be a golf ball, a shuttlecock, or any projectile suitable to strike with a club.

FIELD

The invention relates to backyard tailgating games, and more particularly to a backyard tailgating game that simulates some aspects of the game of golf.

BACKGROUND

Golf is a very popular game. There are millions of amateur golfers in the United States, and there are thousands of professional golfers. However, a golf course is often a distance from a person's home, and private courses require a membership. This may deter many from playing on a golf course. Also, some people may desire to hone their golf skills, but are unable or unwilling to travel to a golf course to work on one particular aspect of their game.

Golf is also a game that requires a tremendous amount of practice and skill. The average person cannot easily learn the game and become proficient; rather, it takes years of practice. Even with years of practice, it can still be an extremely frustrating endeavor that deters some from attempting to play in the first place. For these reasons as well, many people may avoid playing traditional golf on a golf course, and would rather play a similar, less skill-based game in a backyard setting.

These issues with playing golf on a golf course have in part led to the development of simulated golf games that do not require a golf course or all of the requisite skills to be an adequate golfer.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,383,665 (Schultz et al.) discloses a ball-hitting assembly and a target assembly with a first surface area and a second target region with a second surface area. The ball-hitting assembly and the target assembly are laid out flat on a ground or floor surface, and the ball-hitting assembly and the target assembly include a connection assembly to connect the two assemblies into a “storage mode.” The connection assembly includes a hinge assembly connected between an edge portion of the ball-hitting assembly and an edge portion of the target assembly. A first handle assembly is connected to the ball-hitting assembly, and a second handle assembly is connected to the target assembly. In use, it is necessary to have two opposing sets of ball-hitting assemblies and target assemblies. Also, there are no straps that enable the connection assemblies to be transported in a fashion similar to a backpack. Therefore, it is difficult and cumbersome to transport two separate connection assemblies. Further, there is no way to alter or change the set ups of the targets. Instead, they are predefined, and only the difference in distance may be changed. The game disclosed also requires a golf ball to play, which can be a difficult projectile to hit for an unskilled competitor.

U. S. Patent application publication number 2017/0095715 (Maginnis) discloses a rectangular portable playing system for a golf chipping game. The playing system has a first surface with a shooting region and a scoring region, and a second surface parallel to the first that has substantially the same dimensions. The first and second surfaces each have a circular hole with a center located within about 12 inches of one end of the first and second surfaces. The first surface has a goal disposed on one end of the first surface. The goal has at least two vertical side posts, a horizontal crossbar, and a mesh net connected to the side posts and crossbar extending within the entire goal and configured to trap a ball within the goal. While the disclosure is said to be portable, there are a number of elements within the boards itself and particularly within the goal setup. This makes assembly, disassembly, and transportation an issue. It is also necessary to have two opposing boards and targets for the game disclosed to be played. The game disclosed also requires a golf ball to play as well, which again may be a difficult projectile to hit for an unskilled competitor.

Thus, there has been a long felt need for a highly portable backyard tailgating game that incorporates many themes of golf and enables a competitor of any skill level to play.

SUMMARY

The present invention broadly comprises a tailgating game assembly, having a first platform, a second platform, a projectile, a first deformable target, a second deformable target, and a third deformable target.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a tailgating game assembly including a club, a first platform, a second platform, a projectile, and a first deformable target.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a tailgating game assembly including a first platform, a second platform, a club, a projectile, and a deformable target.

According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a method of playing a tailgating game including the steps of placing a first platform at a first distance from a second platform, placing a deformable target between the first platform and the second platform, hitting a projectile with a club from the first platform towards the deformable target in an attempt to place the projectile within the target, and allowing an opponent to hit a projectile with a club from the second platform towards the deformable target.

A general object of the invention is to provide a tailgating game assembly that can be easily transported via straps and handles attached to one or both platforms.

Another object of the invention is to provide a means to connect the first and second platforms, such as a zipper, hook and loop fasteners, or an adhesive material.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a target that is capable of lighting up with LED lights or a “glow-in-the-dark” material to enable gameplay at night.

Another object of the invention is to provide a projectile with a lighting element, such as an LED light or a “glow-in-the-dark” coating to illuminate the projectile at night.

An additional object of the invention is to provide a club with a telescoping shaft.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a club with threaded portions on separate shaft elements that enable the club to have a varying length.

Another object of the invention is to provide cylindrical deformable targets.

These, and other objects and advantages, will be readily appreciable from the following description of the preferred embodiments and from the accompanying drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The nature and mode of operation of the present invention will now be more fully described in the following detailed description of the embodiments taken with the accompanying figures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of competitors playing the tailgating game disclosed;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the tailgating game disclosed after it is setup;

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of platform 21 of the tailgating game assembly;

FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of platform 121 of the tailgating game assembly;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of platform 121 of the tailgating game assembly;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view detailing the way in which platform 21 and platform 121 connect;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of platform 21 and platform 121 being aligned prior to connection;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of platform 21 connected to platform 121;

FIG. 8 is an exploded front view of club 70;

FIG. 9 is a side view of club 70;

FIG. 10 is an exploded side view of club 70 with the club head removed;

FIG. 11 is an exploded front view of club 170;

FIG. 12A is a side view of side 100 a of club head 96;

FIG. 12B is a side view of side 100 b of club head 96;

FIG. 13 has multiple views of club head 196;

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a disassembled sub target;

FIG. 14B is a side view detailing how a sub target may be assembled;

FIG. 15 is a top perspective detailed view of concentric ring targets;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of shuttlecock 91;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a lever press lock mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured;

FIG. 18A is a front view of another example of a lever press lock mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured;

FIG. 18B is a detailed view of the lever press lock shown in FIG. 18A;

FIG. 18C is a detailed view of the lever press lock shown in FIG. 18A after the telescoping sections have been extended;

FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C are examples of various types of screw lock mechanisms by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured;

FIG. 20 is another example of a mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured;

FIG. 21 is an example of a spring-loaded push button locking mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured; and,

FIG. 22 is an alternative embodiment of club 70 with club head 296.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements. While the embodiments are described with respect to what is presently considered to be the preferred aspects, it is to be understood that the invention as claimed is not limited to the disclosed aspect. The present invention is intended to include various modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and, as such, may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Although any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the invention, the preferred methods, devices, and materials are now described.

Adverting now to the Figures, FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of competitor 11 and competitor 111 playing assembled tailgating game 10. Competitor 11 is standing on platform 21 and competitor 111 is standing on platform 121. In an alternative embodiment, competitors 11 and 111 may be standing on the side of platforms 21 and 121. Competitor 11 and competitor 111 are each holding club 70. Projectile 90 is placed on top surface 25 of platform 21, and projectile 90 is placed on top surface 125 of platform 121. Deformable target 60 is placed at the midpoint between platform 21 and platform 121. Deformable target 60 consists of sub deformable target 62, sub deformable target 64, and sub deformable target 66.

To play the backyard tailgating game, competitor 11 strikes projectile 90 with club 70 from platform 21 in an attempt to make projectile 90 land within deformable target 60. If competitor 11 successfully places projectile 90 within deformable target 60, competitor 11 is awarded a predetermined number of points depending upon which sub deformable target projectile 90 lands within. In this embodiment, projectile 90 is a ball, and, more specifically, a golf ball. If competitor 11 is unable to make projectile 90 land within deformable target 60, then competitor 11 is awarded no points. After competitor 11 takes his turn, then competitor 111 has the opportunity to make projectile 90 land within deformable target 60 in the same fashion as competitor 11.

FIG. 2 is a top view of assembled tailgating game 10. Zone 67 is the space created inside sub target 66. If a competitor is able to strike a projectile into zone 67, then he or she automatically wins the game. Zone 68 is the space created outside of sub target 66, but inside of sub target 64. If a competitor is able to strike a projectile into zone 68, then he or she is awarded 5 points. Zone 69 is the space created outside of sub target 64, but inside of sub target 62. If a competitor is able to strike a projectile into zone 69, then he or she is awarded 3 points. Zone 61 represents all other space outside of sub target 62. If a competitor strikes a projectile into zone 61, then they are awarded no points. If a competitor strikes a projectile and it contacts sub target 62, but it lands in zone 61, then he or she is awarded 1 point. The first competitor to strike their projectile into zone 67 or to score exactly 21 points wins. If a player scores over 21 points, then his or her score is reduced to 15, and the game continues. It should be appreciated that while this is the preferred method of playing the tailgating game, various setups, different shaped platforms, different types of targets, and different scoring systems may be implemented.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective exploded view of platform 21. Top surface 25 is where competitor 11 is intended to stand, place projectile 90, and strike projectile 90 with club 70. In the preferred embodiment, top surface 25 of platform 21 is a square section of artificial turf. This is to simulate the feel of a real golf course. However, it should be appreciated that top surface 25 may be made from any material suitable from which a competitor may strike a projectile. Top surface 25 is stitched to inner fabric 28 and sides 31, 32, 33, and 34. It should be appreciated that top surface 25 may also be attached via heat sealing or with adhesives including, but not limited to, glue, cement, or paste. Inside fabric 28 resides directly below top surface 25. Inside fabric 28, in the preferred embodiment, is made of polyester, and is square in shape. Inside fabric 28 is stitched or heat sealed to sides 31, 32, 33, and 34, and/or base 30. This is done so that hard sheet 35 is fully and permanently enclosed between inside fabric 28 and base 30. Hard sheet 35 may be made from plastic, ethylene vinyl acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or any other thermoplastic polymer to provide a rigid surface that prevents platform 25 from deforming. This allows competitor 11 to keep solid footing when striking projectile 90. Hard sheet 35, in the preferred embodiment, is square. Base 35 is square as well, and vertical sides 31, 32, 33, and 34 of base 35 are tall enough to go past the top of top surface 25. In the preferred embodiment, base 30 is made from nylon, but it should be appreciated that base 30 may also be made from other materials, including, but not limited to, polyester, canvas, denim, leather, upholstery, cotton, and plastic. Base 30 further comprises bottom surface 37 and top surface 38. Hard sheet 35 directly contacts top surface 38. Sides 31, 32, 33, and 34 each have their own respective top edge 31 a, 32 a, 33 a, and 34 a. Along edges 31 a, 32 a, 33 a, and 34 a are protrusions 40 that allow zipper 42 to engage protrusions 140 on platform 121 (shown in FIG. 7). Protrusions 40 are secured to edges 31 a, 32 a, 33 a, and 34 a via stitching. Zipper 42 is attached to protrusions 40, and allow for the connection of protrusions 40 to protrusions 140 on platform 125 (shown in FIG. 4). In alternative embodiments, securement methods such as padlocks, buttons, or hook and loop fasteners may be used to connect platform 25 to platform 125 as well. Bottom surface 37 comprises legs 44, 45, 46, and 47 (leg 46 not shown). Legs 44, 45, 46, and 47 are positioned on or about each corner of bottom surface 37 and are meant to provide friction between bottom surface 37 and the ground upon which platform 25 is placed. This is to prevent any movement of platform 25 while in use. In the preferred embodiment, legs 44, 45, 46, and 47 are made from plastic or rubber, or any other type of non-slip material. Also attached to bottom surface 37 are straps 50 and 54. Strap 50 comprises ends 51 and 52, and strap 54 comprises ends 55 and 56. Ends 51, 52, 56, and 57 may be sewn, glued, or attached by any other method to bottom surface 37 to create a backpack-like configuration. Side 31 comprises handle 57 with ends 58 and 59, which may be sewn, glued, or attached by any other method to side 31. Straps 50 and 54 may be oriented differently on platform 21, such as rotated 90 degrees from what is shown in the Figure. In the preferred embodiment, straps 50 and 54 and handle 57 are created from the same material as base 30, but each may include a grip made out of foam, rubber, plastic, or any other type of material with a higher coefficient of friction.

FIG. 4A is an exploded top perspective view of platform 121. Platform 121 comprises top surface 125, inside fabric 128, hard sheet 135, base 130, bottom surface 137, top surface 138, vertical sides 131, 132, 133, and 134, edges 131 a, 132 a, 133 a, and 134 a, legs 144, 145, 146, and 147 (leg 146 not shown), and handle 157. Top surface 125 is where competitor 111 is intended to stand, place projectile 90, and strike projectile 90 with club 70. In the preferred embodiment, top surface 125 of platform 121 is artificial turf, and is square. This is to simulate the feel of a real golf course. However, it should be appreciated that top surface 125 may be made from any material suitable from which a competitor may strike a projectile. Top surface 125 is stitched to inside fabric 128, and sides 131, 132, 133, and 134. It should be appreciated that top surface 125 may also be attached via heat sealing or with adhesives including, but not limited to, glue, cement, or paste. Inside fabric 128 resides directly below top surface 125. Inside fabric 128, in the preferred embodiment, is made of polyester, and is square. Inside fabric 128 is stitched or heat sealed to sides 131, 132, 133, and 134, and/or base 130. This is done so that hard sheet 135 is fully and permanently enclosed between inside fabric 128 and base 130. Hard sheet 135 may be made from plastic, ethylene vinyl acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or any other thermoplastic polymer, and provides a rigid surface that prevents platform 121 from deforming. This allows competitor 111 to keep solid footing when striking projectile 190. Hard sheet 135, in the preferred embodiment, is square. Base 130 is square, and vertical sides 131, 132, 133, and 134 of base 130 are tall enough to go past the top of top surface 125. In the preferred embodiment, base 130 is made from nylon, but it should be appreciated that base 130 may also be made from other materials, including, but not limited to, polyester, canvas, denim, leather, upholstery, cotton, and plastic. Base 130 further comprises bottom surface 137 and top surface 138. Hard sheet 135 directly contacts top surface 138. Sides 131, 132, 133, and 134 each have their own respective edge 131 a, 132 a, 133 a, and 134 a. Along edges 131, 132, 133, and 134 are protrusions 140 that allow for a zipper engagement with platform 21 (shown in FIG. 7). Protrusions 140 are secured to edges 131 a, 132 a, 133 a, and 134 a via stitching. In alternative embodiments, securement methods such as padlocks, buttons, snap buttons, or hook and loop fasteners may be used to connect platform 121 to platform 21 as well. Bottom surface 137 comprises legs 144, 145, 146, and 147 (leg 146 not shown). Legs 144, 145, 146, and 147 are positioned on or about each corner of bottom surface 137 and are meant to provide friction between bottom surface 137 and the ground upon which it is placed. This is to prevent any movement of platform 121 while in use. In the preferred embodiment, legs 144, 145, 146, and 147 are made from rubber, or any other type of non-slip material. Side 131 comprises handle 157 with ends 155 and 156, which may be sewn, glued, or attached by any other method to side 131. In the preferred embodiment, handle 157 is created from the same material as base 130, but may include a grip made out of foam, rubber, plastic, or any other type of material with a higher coefficient of friction.

FIG. 4B is a top perspective view of fully assembled platform 121.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of platform 21 and platform 121 separated. Lines 15 and 16 indicate the direction and manner in which platforms 21 and 121 connect. Such an arrangement would allow for protrusions 40 and protrusions 140 to be sealed together via zipper 42.

FIG. 6 is another top perspective view of platform 21 and platform 121 separated, but in this Figure platform 121 is directly aligned with platform 21 for connection.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of platform 21 and 121 connected via protrusions 40 and 140 and zipper 42. When connected, cavity 20 (not shown) is formed between platforms 21 and 121 such that disassembled deformable sub targets 62, 64, and 66 (shown in FIG. 12A), one or more clubs 70 or 170, and one or more projectiles 90 may be contained within. When assembled, straps 50 and 54 may then be worn on a user's back similar to a backpack.

FIG. 8 is an exploded front view of club 70. Club 70 comprises handle 72, first shaft 76, second shaft 80, and club head 86. Handle 72 comprises ends 73 and 74. End 73 is the end proximate to a user, and has a smooth, rounded tip. End 74 is distal to the user, and comprises a protruding threaded portion 75. Threaded portion 75 is threaded in a way to optimally engage internal threading 79 of first shaft 76. In the preferred embodiment, handle 72 is made from rubber or leather, and threaded portion 75 is made from metal or a polymer plastic. In an alternative embodiment, end 74 comprises an aperture with internal threading, and end 79 comprises a protruding threaded portion optimally arranged to engage the internal threading of end 74.

First shaft 76, in the preferred embodiment, is made from metal or plastic, and is hollow. However, it should be appreciated that first shaft 76 may be made from a different material, and may be solid throughout with a partial through bore to receive threaded portion 75 of handle 72. First shaft 76 comprises ends 77 and 78. End 77 is proximate to the user, and end 78 is distal to the user. End 77 comprises internal threading 79 arranged to optimally engage threaded portion 75 of end 74. Threaded portion 75 is secured to internal threading 79 by twisting handle 72 clockwise until club 70 is at the desired length. In an alternative embodiment, once club 70 is at the desired length, then a fastening mechanism, such as a clip, may be attached to handle 72 and first shaft 76 to further secure the two pieces. End 78 is substantially identical to end 74, and comprises threaded portion 80. Threaded portion 80 is threaded in a way to optimally engage internal threading 85 of second shaft 82. In an alternative embodiment, end 78 comprises an aperture with internal threading, and end 83 comprises a protruding threaded portion optimally arranged to engage the internal threading of end 78.

Second shaft 82, in the preferred embodiment, is made from metal or plastic, and is hollow. However, it should be appreciated that second shaft 82 may be made from a different material, and may be solid throughout with a partial through bore to receive threaded portion 80 of first shaft 76. Second shaft 82 comprises ends 83 and 84. End 83 is proximate to the user, and end 84 is distal to the user. End 83 is substantially similar to end 77, and comprises internal threading 85 arranged to optimally engage threaded portion 80 of end 79. Threaded portion 80 is secured to internal threading 85 by twisting first shaft 76 clockwise until club 70 is at the desired length. In an alternative embodiment, once club 70 is at the desired length, then a fastening mechanism, such as a clip, may be attached to first shaft 76 and second shaft 82 to further secure the two pieces. End 84 comprises rod 87 and abutment 88. Both rod 87 and abutment 88 are used to connect club head 96 to end 84. Rod 87 serves as an axis of rotation upon which club head 96 may rotate provide a desired club head angle for the user. Rod 87 is operatively arranged to friction fit into aperture 98 of club head 96. However, the friction fit is not so tight as to prevent rotation of club head 96 about rod 87, or to prevent the user from removing club head 96 from club 70 entirely. Abutment 88 is a substantially flange-like semi-circle perpendicular to rod 87. In the preferred embodiment, abutment 88 comprises aperture 89 through which rod 97 of club head 96 may fit. Aperture 89 follows the same curvature of the top of abutment 88, and serves as a track for rod 97. When club head 96 is in the desired position, washer 101, split lock washer 102, and wing nut 103 are rotated clockwise to tighten rod 97 against abutment 88 to prevent movement of club head 96. However, it should be appreciated that a plurality of apertures in abutment 88 may also be used to receive rod 97 instead of a single aperture.

FIG. 9 is a view of club 70 fully assembled: handle 72 is fully connected to first shaft 76, first shaft 76 is fully connected to second shaft 82, and club head 96 is secured against abutment 88.

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of club 70 with club head 96 removed. FIG. 10 better exemplifies the curvature and size of aperture 89 on abutment 88. Also, internal threading 85 is better exemplified, and this matches that of internal threading 79 on first shaft 76.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of club 170. Club 170 comprises handle 172, first telescoping shaft 176, second telescoping shaft 182, and club head 190. Handle 172 comprises ends 173 and 174. End 173 is proximate to a user, and has a smooth, rounded tip. End 174 is distal to the user, and is directly connected to end 177 of first telescoping shaft 176. In the preferred embodiment, handle 172 is made from rubber or leather.

First telescoping shaft 176, in the preferred embodiment, is made from metal or plastic, and is hollow. However, it should be appreciated that first telescoping shaft 176 may be made from a different suitable material. First telescoping shaft 176 comprises ends 177 and 178. End 177 is proximate to the user, and end 178 is distal to the user. End 177 is attached directly to end 174 of handle 172. End 78 is hollow, and is operatively arranged to receive end 183 of second telescoping shaft 182. The inside diameter of hollow first telescoping shaft 176 is larger than the outer diameter of second telescoping shaft 182 such that second telescoping shaft 182 may be slid in and out of first telescoping shaft 176. When the relationship between first telescoping shaft 176 and second telescoping shaft 182 becomes such that club 170 is at the desired length, then a locking mechanism may be applied to first telescoping shaft 176 and second telescoping shaft 182 to keep them in place. Possible mechanisms include a lever press lock, a screw lock mechanism, or other possible twist-lock mechanisms for telescoping members. The locking mechanism may be a separate piece applied to club 176, or it may be integral to first shaft 176 and second shaft 182.

Second telescoping shaft 182, in the preferred embodiment, is made from metal or plastic, and is hollow. However, it should be appreciated that second shaft 182 may be made from a different material, and may be solid. Second shaft 82 comprises ends 183 and 184. End 183 is proximate to the user, and end 184 is distal to the user. End 183 is operatively arranged to be received by end 178 as described above. End 184 comprises abutment 186 and spring 188, which is also connected directly to club head 190. Abutment 186 is a substantially flange-like semi-circle located at end 184. Abutment 186, in the preferred embodiment, comprises apertures 187. It should be appreciated that apertures 187 could comprise more or less total apertures. Apertures 187 follow the same curvature of the semi-circle of abutment 186. Spring 188 is permanently secured to both abutment 188 and club head 190, and allows club head 190 to rotate about abutment 186. Club head 196 comprises first face 191, second face 192 (not shown), grooves 193, and aperture 194. Aperture 194 (not shown) is located on the same section of club head 190 as spring 188, and is positioned along club head 190 such that it may align with any one of apertures 187. When club head 190 is in the desired position, and aperture 194 is aligned with one of apertures 187, then pin 189 may be inserted through one of apertures 187 and aperture 194 to lock club head 190 in place against abutment 186. First face 191 and second face 192 (not shown) are substantially identical, similar to first face 100 a and second face 100 b of club head 96. Identical first face 191 and second face 192 in conjunction with spring 188 and pin 189 allow for club 170 to be used by both right and left handed competitors. Grooves 193 provide aerodynamic lift when striking projectile 90.

FIG. 12A is a side perspective view of first face 100 a of club head 96. First face 100 a comprises grooves 99. When club head 96 contacts projectile 90, grooves 99 provide aerodynamic lift when striking projectile 90. Threaded rod 97 protrudes from the upper portion of the end of club head 96 that connects to second shaft 82.

FIG. 12B is a side perspective view of second face 100 b of club head 96. Second face 100 b is a mirror image of first face 100 a. Club head 96 is symmetrical so that club head 96 and, more generally, club 70 may be used by both left and right handed players. In the preferred embodiment, club head 96 is made from metal or plastic, but it should be appreciated that club head 96 may be made from various types of materials known in the art.

FIG. 13 comprises a front and two side views of an alternative embodiment of the club head, club head 196. Club head 196 comprises base 197, first face 200 a, second face 200 b, and grooves 199. Club head 196 is substantially an isosceles triangular prism, with first face 200 a and second face 200 b being substantially identical. Both first face 200 a and second face 200 b form substantially identical acute angles with base 197. First face 200 a and second face 200 b both comprise grooves 199 which provide aerodynamic lift when striking projectile 90. In this embodiment, second shaft 84 of club 70 does not include rod 87 or abutment 88; rather, club head 196 is permanently secured to end 84 of second shaft 82. In the preferred embodiment, club head 196 may be made from metal or plastic.

FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of sub target 62 disassembled. Sub target 62 comprises ends 160 and 162. End 160 comprises tab 164. Tab 164 is shaped substantially similar to the letter “T” due to protrusions 165 a and 165 b. End 162 comprises apertures 166 a and 166 b which are operatively arranged to receive protrusions 165 a and 165 b, respectively. In the preferred embodiment, sub target 62 is made from ABS plastic, but may also be made of other deformable materials such as polymers, or sheets of malleable metal. Also, ends 160 and 162 may be fastened to one another by other means, including a hook and loop fastener, snap lock, or an adhesive material. It should be noted that sub targets 64 and 66 are substantially similar to sub target 62; the only difference being the length of the material used, and the subsequent diameter of the sub target created when assembled. In a different embodiment, sub target 66 does not comprise ends 160 and 162, tab 164, and apertures 166 a and 166 b; rather, sub target 66 is a hollow cylinder without a top surface and without a bottom surface. In an alternative embodiment, sub targets 62, 64, and 66 may be made of a “glow-in-the-dark” material. In another embodiment, top edge 168 of sub targets 62, 64, and 66 may be covered in LED lights to enable users to visualize the targets in the dark. In another embodiment, LED lights may be located on the inside and or outside faces of sub targets 62, 64, and 66, which allows for complete illumination of target 60 when fully assembled.

FIG. 14B is a side view detailing how sub target 62 is assembled. Arrows 169 a and 169 b indicate that protrusions 165 a and 165 b of tab 164 are each inserted into apertures 166 a and 166 b, respectively. When assembled, sub target 62 becomes circular, as shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 15 is a top perspective detailed view target 60 fully assembled. Target 60 comprises sub target 62, 64, and 66 all in an assembled state. In use, target 60 is placed at substantially the midpoint between platform 21 and platform 121.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of projectile 90. In the preferred embodiment, projectile 90 is shuttlecock 91. Shuttlecock 91 comprises base 92 and feathers 93. Base 92 comprises a soft cork core, and leather cover 94 on the outside. Base 92 is substantially semi-circular, and in use, club head 96 is meant to strike base 92 in an attempt to place it within target 60. Feathers 93 may be any type of bird feather, or may be made from a synthetic alternative. Feathers 93 form a hollow frustum emanating from base 92. In the preferred embodiment, shuttlecock 91 is 4-12 grams, preferably 6.5-7 grams, feathers 93 are each approximately 70 millimeters in length, the diameter of base 92 is approximately 25 to 28 millimeters, and the diameter at the other end of the frustum formed by feathers 93 is approximately 54 millimeters. In an alternative embodiment, cover 94 may be made of a “glow-in-the-dark” material. In another embodiment, lights may be inserted within or on base 92 to illuminate shuttlecock 91. In a further embodiment, base 92 may be made of foam without cover 94.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a lever press lock mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured. The image on the left displays the lever in the “locked” position, and the image on the right displays the lever in the “unlocked” position. The lever is attached to a metal collar that wraps around the diameter of the shaft. When the lever is in an “unlocked” position, the first shaft and the second shaft of the club may be moved to adjust the length of the club. When the club is at the desired length, then the lever may be pushed down into the “locked” position. Putting the lever into the “locked” position causes the lever to pull upon the collar, tightening it against both the first shaft and the second shaft. The collar tightens to the point where both the first shaft and second shaft are locked into place. To unlock the shaft, the user needs to just pull up on the lever and adjust the length of the club as necessary.

FIG. 18A is a front view of another example of a lever press lock mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured. FIG. 18B is a detailed view of the lever press lock shown in FIG. 18A. In this embodiment, there are three separate locking mechanisms, although it should be appreciated that there may be more or less. Each mechanism is positioned at the very end of a shaft and comprises a lever. Each shaft is hollow, and in it is another shaft. However, the locking mechanism on each shaft has a diameter large enough so that it does not fall entirely within the shaft it is contained within; rather, the diameter of the bottom of the locking mechanism abuts the diameter of the top of the locking mechanism of the shaft it is within. When the lever of a locking mechanism is in the “unlocked” position, such as the middle lever in FIG. 18B, the inferior shaft located within may be moved and adjusted. When the lever locking mechanism is moved to the “locked” position, such as in the top and bottom locking mechanisms of FIG. 18B, then a collar located about the diameter of the inferior shaft is tightened so that it prevents further movement of the inferior shaft. FIG. 18C is a detailed view of the lever press lock shown in FIG. 18A after the telescoping sections have been extended.

FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C are examples of various types of screw lock mechanisms by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured. At the end of a superior shaft is a screw lock mechanism. A threaded aperture within the locking mechanism is operatively arranged to receive a threaded screw. An inferior rod may be placed within the hollow cylinder of the superior rod and through the locking mechanism. When the threaded screw is not secured within the threaded aperture, then the superior rod is in the “unlocked” position, and the inferior rod may be moved and adjusted within. When the club is at the desired length, then the threaded screw may be tightened through the threaded aperture until the end of the screw inside the superior rod abuts the inferior rod. When fully tightened, the inferior rod is prevented from moving, and the club is locked at the desired length. The mechanisms in FIG. 19A, FIG. 19B, and FIG. 19C all work in a similar fashion.

FIG. 20 is another example of a mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured.

FIG. 21 is an example of a spring-loaded push button locking mechanism by which a telescoping or a screw-fit club may be secured. An inferior shaft has an aperture through which a spring-loaded button protruded. One end of the spring is attached to a point within the inferior shaft, and the other end is attached to the inside of the button. The superior shaft has a plurality of apertures through which the button of the inferior shaft may protrude. The superior shaft has an internal diameter larger than that of the external diameter of the inferior shaft. This allows for adjustment of the inferior shaft within the superior shaft when the button is depressed, thus changing the length of the club. To engage the locking mechanism, the button must be aligned with one of the apertures on the superior shaft, and the button must be allowed to expand and protrude through one of the apertures. This effectively locks the length of the club in place. If a user wants to again adjust the length of the club, he or she may again depress the button and change the position of the inferior shaft with respect to the superior shaft.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative embodiment of club 70, where end 84 of second shaft 82 comprises threaded portion 295, and club head 296 comprises arm 297 on club end 298 a with internal threading 299 operatively arranged to engage threaded portion 295 of end 84. End 298 b is the end of club 296 opposite end 298 a, and end 298 b does not connect to end 84. Club head 296 may be secured to end 84 by rotating club head 296 in either a clock-wise or counter-clockwise fashion, depending upon the direction of the threading. In this embodiment, club head 296 may either be a club head designed for a right-handed or left-handed user. This allows for different users to use the same club shafts with interchangeable right- and left-handed club heads.

Thus it is seen that the objects of the invention are efficiently obtained, although changes and modifications to the invention should be readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, which changes would not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as claimed.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

-   10 Assembled tailgating game -   11 Competitor -   15 Line -   16 Line -   20 Cavity -   21 Platform -   25 Top surface -   28 Inside fabric -   30 Base -   31 Side -   31 a Edge -   32 Side -   32 a Edge -   33 Side -   33 a Edge -   34 Side -   34 a Edge -   35 Hard sheet -   37 Bottom surface -   38 Top surface -   40 Protrusions -   42 Zipper -   44 Leg -   45 Leg -   46 Leg -   47 Leg -   50 Strap -   51 End -   52 End -   54 Strap -   55 End -   56 End -   57 Handle -   58 End -   59 End -   60 Deformable target -   61 Zone -   62 Sub target -   64 Sub target -   66 Sub target -   67 Zone -   68 Zone -   69 Zone -   70 Club -   72 Handle -   73 End -   74 End -   75 Threaded portion -   76 First shaft -   77 End -   78 End -   79 Internal threading -   80 Threaded portion -   82 Second shaft -   83 End -   84 End -   85 Internal threading -   87 Rod -   88 Abutment -   89 Aperture -   90 Projectile -   91 Shuttlecock -   92 Base -   93 Feathers -   94 Cover -   96 Club head -   97 Rod -   98 Aperture -   99 Grooves -   100 a First face -   100 b Second face -   101 Washer -   102 Split lock washer -   103 Wing nut -   111 Competitor -   121 Platform -   125 Top surface -   128 Inside fabric -   130 Base -   131 Side -   131 a Edge -   132 Side -   132 a Edge -   133 Side -   133 a Edge -   134 Side -   134 a Edge -   135 Hard sheet -   137 Bottom surface -   138 Top surface -   140 Protrusions -   144 Leg -   145 Leg -   146 Leg -   147 Leg -   157 Handle -   158 End -   159 End -   160 End -   162 End -   164 Tab -   165 a Protrusion -   165 b Protrusion -   166 a Aperture -   166 b Aperture -   168 Edge -   169 a Arrow -   169 b Arrow -   170 Club -   172 Handle -   173 End -   174 End -   176 First telescoping shaft -   177 End -   178 End -   182 Second telescoping shaft -   183 End -   184 End -   186 Abutment -   187 Apertures -   188 Spring -   189 Pin -   190 Club head -   191 First face -   192 Second face -   193 Grooves -   194 Aperture -   196 Club head -   197 Base -   199 Grooves -   200 a First face -   200 b Second face -   295 Threaded portion -   296 Club head -   297 Arm -   298 a End -   298 b End -   299 Internal threading 

I claim:
 1. A tailgating game assembly comprising: a first platform; a second platform; a projectile; a first deformable target; a second deformable target; and, a third deformable target.
 2. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 further comprising a club.
 3. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 2 wherein said club further comprises: a handle; a first shaft member; a second shaft member; and, a head.
 4. The tail gating game assembly recited in claim 3 wherein said first shaft member is hollow, and second shaft member is operatively arranged to fit within and telescope out of said first shaft member.
 5. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 4 wherein a locking mechanism attaches to said first shaft member and said second shaft member, locking said club at a fixed length.
 6. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 3 wherein said second shaft member comprises a threaded aperture at a first end, and said head comprises a threaded arm operatively arranged to engage said threaded aperture.
 7. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 3 wherein said head is symmetrical.
 8. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first platform comprises a first edge with a first plurality of projections.
 9. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 8 wherein said second platform comprises a second edge comprising a second plurality of projections that are operatively arranged to interlock with said first plurality of projections.
 10. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said projectile is a ball.
 11. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said projectile is a shuttlecock.
 12. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 11 wherein said shuttlecock further comprises a lighting element.
 13. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first deformable target is a net.
 14. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first deformable target comprises: a first end comprising an aperture; and, a second end comprising a tab operatively arranged to engage said aperture.
 15. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein: said first deformable target has a first diameter; said second deformable target has a second diameter less than said first diameter; said third deformable target has a third diameter less than said second diameter.
 16. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first deformable target comprises LED lights.
 17. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first platform further comprises a strap.
 18. The tailgating game assembly recited in claim 1 wherein said first platform further comprises artificial turf.
 19. A tailgating game assembly comprising: a first platform; a second platform; a club; a projectile; and, a deformable target.
 20. A method of playing a tailgating game comprising the steps of: placing a first platform at a first distance from a second platform; placing a deformable target between said first platform and said second platform; hitting a projectile with a club from said first platform substantially towards said deformable target; and, allowing an opponent to hit a projectile with a club from said second platform substantially towards said deformable target. 